1. Idealism v. Realism: Love in the Middle Ages
Indeed, it is easy to accept the Franklin's depiction of Dorigen and Arviragus' marriage as idealistic, but it is in this idealism that Chaucer speaks volumes. Dorigen and Arviragus are involved in a marriage that is, to say the least, not typical for the times. ... Arviragus' loyalty to both his wife and society are commendable. ... In it, the reader experiences the pain of love lost (Dorigen when she pines over the fear of her husband), the heartbreak of unrealized love (Aurelius), love and its role in morality and society (Arviragus), and the effect love can have on innoce...
- Word Count: 2555
- Approx Pages: 10
- Has Bibliography